Rogue croc ‘Dynamo’ escapes at Billabong Sanctuary, Townsville

A massive saltwater crocodile stunned visitors after it managed to bash its way through a gate and escape at a popular wildlife sanctuary in North Queensland.

A 3.8m saltie called Dynamo escaped at Billabong Sanctuary on Saturday.

A massive saltwater crocodile stunned visitors after it managed to bash its way through a gate and escape at a popular wildlife sanctuary in Townsville.

Wildlife handlers at Billabong Sanctuary were called into action when a rogue crocodile escaped an enclosure at the popular park, located in Nome, at 10.30 on Saturday.

General manager Bob Flemming said the 3.8m saltie — known as Dynamo — bashed his way out through the lower part of a gate designed for vehicle access.

“Dynamo was sighted outside a nearby crocodile enclosure by a Billabong staff member,” he said in a statement.

“The Emergency Escape Plan was activated. A thorough search of the park was conducted to ensure all customers were evacuated through the front entrance.

Dynamo escaped at Billabong Sanctuary on Saturday. Picture: Supplied.

“Dynamo, at this stage, had made his way to the nearby edge of the billabong and was enticed out of the water with food, jaw roped, dragged out of the water and strapped to a board.

“He was restrained on the board until the gate was repaired and reinforced. The crocodile was returned to his enclosure and the park was reopened by 2.30pm.

“Refunds were made when requested.

“A debriefing was conducted with the staff by the Curator, Ray Stephens. Billabong staff working as a team resulted in a fast capture of the animal. No members of the public or Billabong staff were injured.

“I have nothing but praise for the staff who acted in a professional manner at all times.”

The sanctuary reopened at 2.30pm on Saturday.

Originally published as Rogue croc ‘Dynamo’ escapes at Billabong Sanctuary, Townsville